General Comments:

I bought this car 2 years used looking and running like new, and feel that I have gotten more than my money's worth out of it! The cost to own it and operate it has been minimal, but the reliability has been maximum. It has really retained its value. The only thing on it that doesn't still work is the original cassette tape deck!

I have followed my mechanic's advice on 2 points, and this has probably helped keep it running so well for so long. I always use mid-grade fuel, and I change the oil every 3000 miles.

The extended cab has been like having a truck with a trunk, as it provided adequate space for stowing gear. The truck bed has been a good size for hauling, moving, and even sleeping once a camper top was added. The rear jump seats in the extended cab are too small for long trips or large passengers, but okay for a quick trip if needed. The driver seats are comfortable enough, and still in great shape after 15 years.

The engine runs pretty quiet but starts with ease in heat or cold, has enough power for a 4 cylinder, and accelerates well. Turning radius is a little tight and stiff, but decent for a truck. After all, it's not made to be a race car!

Gas mileage was only about 20 miles to the gallon, but okay for a truck. It may have been a little better with the camper top, and the manual transmission. The clutch has been exceptional. Friends are in awe of the fact that it still shifts so smoothly and has yet to need replacement!

After owning this truck for 15 years, I cannot say enough good things about my Nissan pick-up. Although only a little 4-cylinder, it has gotten me across the country on road trips without worry, taken me over the mountains on gravel roads, down to beautiful rivers and valleys. I sold it tonight just under blue book value, and with new tires and regular oil changes, the next owner will likely drive it for its next 100,000 miles of adventures.

1993 Nissan Hardbody Pickup EX 2.8L V6 from North America

Summary:

Excellent vehicle. Must buy!

Faults:

All sorts of minor stuff over the years... Mostly exhaust parts, and fuel system stuff, but nothing major.

I religiously changed the oil every 2000 miles, which helped it run great all the time. Flushed the radiator regularly also, and changed all filters at spec. intervals... truck had no major problems. Ever.

Simply a great machine. Right after getting new tires one time, I saw a Ford Ranger that belonged to my buddy, and decided to sell my Nissan and get an automatic 4x4 Ford Ranger. Worse mistake I ever made. Will never buy another Ford product. Going back to Nissan!

3rd Feb 2013, 10:03

This experience is mirrors mine. However, after at first thinking that the brand was junk, I was forced to own up to fact that I had purchased an abused/neglected vehicle. Nice paint, new wheels and tires, and a new stereo do not a truck make.

Lesson learned: Look beyond what you see, have a trusted mechanic give it a complete going over. My mistake cost me an engine replacement, new clutch and new exhaust system. With a mechanic brother and friends' help, I now have a very nice rig that is every bit as good as my old Toyota 4x4. Buying a used pickup can be a gamble for sure.

12th Oct 2013, 10:57

My little truck has had only one little problem since my elk hunting disaster. The timing chain wore a hole in the front cover, spilling coolant into the crankcase. This was common with ka24e engines and Toyota 22r engines. Repair was 316 dollars. The truck runs great, but I will never buy a salvage engine again. The timing chain guide was missing. The auto wreckers did not know this.